Lived Experience Worker jobs in Australia
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Browse all rolesAbout Lived Experience Worker roles
The lived experience workforce in Australia encompasses both consumer and carer perspectives. Consumer Lived Experience Workers draw on their own experience of mental illness; Carer Lived Experience Workers draw on their experience supporting a family member or friend. Both roles bring perspectives that are impossible to replicate through clinical training alone.
Lived Experience Workers work in a range of contexts — direct consumer support (similar to peer support), quality improvement and co-design, consumer advisory roles, workforce development, and community education. The distinction between Lived Experience Worker and Peer Support Worker varies by employer — some organisations use the terms interchangeably.
The lived experience workforce is recognised in the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan and in state mental health strategies. Investment in this workforce has increased significantly, with dedicated training programs, workforce development bodies, and peer leadership pathways now established across most states.
Typical salary
$55k – $78k AUD
Senior consumer consultant and co-design roles attract higher rates. Government and peak body positions may be above award.
Registration
No statutory registration. Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work relevant. Consumer Consultant roles may require demonstrated systemic advocacy experience.
Qualifications typically required
- Lived experience of mental illness (consumer) or caring (carer) — essential
- Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work or equivalent
- Understanding of the mental health system and consumer rights
- NDIS Worker Screening Check where applicable
Career pathway
Entry-level roles focus on direct support or project involvement. Senior roles include Consumer Consultant, Peer Workforce Coordinator, Co-design Lead, and senior advisory positions in government or peak bodies. Many lived experience workers also move into advocacy, policy, and research roles.